Amid concerns over his recent debate performance, a notable segment of Democratic leaders are suggesting that President Joe Biden should reconsider his 2024 presidential campaign.
The debate, characterized by moments where Biden seemed to struggle with his responses, has sparked a wave of speculation about his fitness for office and electoral viability.
Notably, Texas Congressman Lloyd Doggett, a serving Democrat, publicly called for Biden to step aside, citing Biden’s weak poll numbers and unconvincing debate performance as key reasons.
“President Biden has continued to run substantially behind Democratic senators in key states and in most polls has trailed Donald Trump,” Doggett said in a statement on Tuesday. “I had hoped that the debate would provide some momentum to change that. It did not. Instead of reassuring voters, the President failed to effectively defend his many accomplishments and expose Trump’s many lies.”
Doggett compared his recommendation to former President Lyndon Johnson’s withdrawal in 1968 amidst party divisions, suggesting Biden should consider a similar course.
Former Ohio Congressman Tim Ryan and Julian Castro, ex-Housing Secretary under Obama, also voiced their concerns.
Ryan, through a Newsweek OpEd, advocated for Vice President Kamala Harris to lead the ticket, believing she could energize the Democratic base and offer a stark contrast to Trump.
Ryan also took to the social media platform saying, “We have to rip the band aid off! Too much is at stake. @VP has significantly grown into her job, she will destroy Trump in debate, highlight choice issue, energize our base, bring back young voters and give us generational change. It’s time!”
Castro, commenting on social media, criticized Biden’s debate showing as insufficient to counter Trump’s tactics. “Biden had a very low bar going into the debate and failed to clear even that bar. He seemed unprepared, lost, and not strong enough to parry effectively with Trump, who lies constantly,” wrote Castro.
Amidst these calls, a recent Reuters/Ipsos poll indicates a significant portion of Democratic voters share this apprehension.
Nearly one-third of Democrats believe Biden should not continue his reelection bid following his debate performance.
The poll reflects a precarious position for Biden, with 32% of Democrats expressing a desire for him to withdraw.
Despite the internal party pressures, Biden remains steadfast in his campaign, bolstered by his victory in the primaries and the pledged support of a majority of delegates.
However, as the Democratic National Convention approaches, the party faces a critical decision on whether to rally behind Biden or consider a shift in their nomination strategy.
For Republican and Trump supporters, this internal discord offers a glimpse into the challenges and divisions that could shape the upcoming election.